Maori Bone Antiqued Tattoo Hei Matau Fish Hook Necklace

Hand Carved Maori Bone Scrimshaw Antiqued Tattoo Hei Matau Fish Hook Pendant with adjustable, sliding bead, cord.

Note: As each piece of bone is different, no two pieces will antique in the same way; each piece will be as unique as the person who wears it.

Hei matau finds its origins in Maori legend, which holds that the North Island of New Zealand was once a huge fish that was caught by the great mariner Maui using only a woven line and a bone hook. Legend holds that the shape of Hawkes Bay is that of the hei matau, which caught in the fish's side.

For the Maori, the hei matau is taonga (a cultural treasure). It represents not only their land, but also prosperity, fertility and safe passage over water.

Size: 45mm L x 28mm W x 6.5mm (thickness) Size 1.77 inch L x 1.13 inch W x .25inchs (thickness) (size may vary slightly ).